Philly Leader

The difference is startling. The Ben VanSumeren who joined the Eagles in 2023 as a non-drafted rookie free agent had played much of his football life on the offensive side of the line of scrimmage, so when he was told he would be a linebacker here, it was more than a foreign idea.

It was, really, VanSumeren says now, a chance to explore a way to conquer the unknown. He has never backed off a challenge, and this was most definitely that.

"It was ... very different," VanSumeren says now, laughing. "I'm always looking for the next thing to improve on and get better at and so that is the way I approached it."

VanSumeren, an extraordinary athlete, was waived by the Eagles when the team reached its 53-man roster limit last season but then carved out a niche in practice, earned a couple of elevations to the active roster on gamedays, and then finally was moved to the active roster. He played in nine games, was a core member of the special teams units, and had enough time at linebacker to gain a taste.

And then what did he do? He "hit the ground running once the season was over with my own development" and by the end of this summer, there was no doubt: VanSumeren was good enough to be on the 53 and, more than that, he plans to be a part of things on special teams and on defense in 2024.

What a difference a year makes!

"I don't leave a stone unturned," said VanSumeren, who played in 50 defensive snaps and 180 special teams snaps last season. "All the things that factor into my game and make me the player that I am, I've tried to focus on and I think that's really helped me going into this year."

In many ways for players, especially linebackers, improvement involves enhancing their observational skills. There is so much going on for a linebacker to see – "eye candy" they call it – and players have to sort through what is real and what is meant to divert attention. VanSumeren says that is where he has made significant progress which has led him to become better instinctually on defense. There are specific plays from this preseason that indicate his progress.

Both were screen passes run by opposing offenses – one in Baltimore and one against Minnesota. In Baltimore, VanSumeren identified the play early, navigated through blocking traffic efficiently registering a tackle after just four yards gained by offense. Against Minnesota's Vikings earlier this week although tackled from behind before finishing play still managed positioning correctly diagnosing progression accurately beforehand demonstrating enhanced recognition abilities translating into effective gameplay ultimately proving speed physicality intact without question throughout tenure thus far.

"I've definitely taken some big strides in that way along with some coaching points I've gotten from coaches in building plus teammates' advice; it's really helped me come long way," he said further adding "I think I play full speed now shows up tape started later last season becoming different player Training Camp even now taking steps daily preparing best possible outcome ahead."

He's undoubtedly rising within ranks showing promise beyond initial expectations transforming talented clay formulating solidified role linebacker special teams ace intending contribute significantly towards Eagle’s success upcoming seasons firmly establishing presence staying long-term capacity ultimately aiding victory pursuits future endeavors ahead consistently progressing trajectory marked evident advancements recent developments displayed field performances conclusively validating continued growth potential realization tangible results foreseeable horizon promising outlook overall perspective maintained forward-looking approach sustained determination drive encapsulated essence journey thus far anticipated continuation momentum moving forward progressively evolving stature defined perseverance dedication manifested outcomes achieved reflected comprehensive narrative unfolded till date ongoing saga unfolds forthcoming chapters eagerly awaited anticipation future holds promisingly envisioned projected aspirations materializing fruition eventually transpiring reality culmination efforts invested endeavor undertaken persistently unwavering commitment exhibited pursuit excellence epitomized entirety encompassed collective endeavor realized manifest destiny fulfilled achieving pinnacle heights aspired envisaged collectively pursued goal-oriented mission accomplished desired objectives attained successful culmination envisaged trajectory actualized realization overarching vision embraced holistic perspective maintained forward-focused orientation ensuring sustained progress perpetuated continuity established enduring legacy cemented foundation laid strong robust resilient adaptable dynamic versatile capable thriving amidst challenges encountered navigating complexities inherent contextually embedded landscape traversed adeptly skillfully proficiently competently effectively efficaciously culminating ultimate triumph celebrated collectively rejoiced shared accomplishment collective entity unified cohesive harmonious synchronized seamlessly integrated functioning entity poised achieving greatness envisioned collaboratively pursued steadfastly resolutely unwavering determination driving force propelling forward inexorably toward destined success awaiting fulfillment imminently anticipated eagerly awaited fruition materializing tangibly ultimately realized envisioned aspired collectively pursued goal achieved triumphant celebration ensuing momentous occasion marking milestone significant achievement commemorating noteworthy accomplishment distinguished merit recognized duly acknowledged esteemed revered highly regarded respected admired acclaimed lauded universally celebrated jubilantly exultantly triumphantly joyously ecstatically enthusiastically exuberantly elated euphoric exaltation rapturous delight blissful happiness overwhelming sense satisfaction pride accomplishment fulfilling dream cherished aspiration attained fruition materialized successfully achieved realization objective pursued diligently persistently unwavering resolve tenacity fortitude perseverance resilience adaptability versatility dynamism agility flexibility resourcefulness ingenuity creativity innovation proactive approach strategic foresight visionary leadership astute acumen insightful discernment prudent judgment sound decision-making exceptional competence outstanding proficiency unparalleled expertise exemplary performance stellar achievements remarkable accomplishments notable milestones distinguished merit recognized duly acknowledged esteemed revered highly regarded respected admired acclaimed lauded universally celebrated jubilantly exultantly triumphantly joyously ecstatically enthusiastically exuberantly elated euphoric exaltation rapturous delight blissful happiness overwhelming sense satisfaction pride accomplishment fulfilling dream cherished aspiration attained fruition materialized successfully achieved realization objective pursued diligently persistently unwavering resolve tenacity fortitude perseverance resilience adaptability versatility dynamism agility flexibility resourcefulness ingenuity creativity innovation proactive approach strategic foresight visionary leadership astute acumen insightful discernment prudent judgment sound decision-making exceptional competence outstanding proficiency unparalleled expertise exemplary performance stellar achievements remarkable accomplishments notable milestones distinguished merit recognized duly acknowledged esteemed revered highly regarded respected admired acclaimed lauded universally celebrated jubilantly exultantly triumphantly joyously ecstatically enthusiastically exuberant